Catbells Circular Walk from Hawes End (Boat from Keswick)
A classic Lake District Catbells circular walk combining a scenic boat trip across Derwentwater with one of the most family friendly Wainwright summits.
This circular walk starts with parking in Keswick, taking the launch to Hawes End, climbing Catbells, then returning to Hawes End for the boat back across the lake.
It’s short, exciting, incredibly scenic, and perfect for confident families or beginners wanting their first proper fell walk.
Part of our Lake District walks collection.
Quick facts
Distance: 4.18 miles
Time: Around 2 hours 5 minutes at a relaxed pace
Route type: Circular
Elevation gain: Approximately 1,444 ft
Difficulty: Moderate due to steep sections and short rocky steps
Dog friendly: Yes including the boat crossing
Start point: Lakeside Long Stay Car Park, Keswick CA12 5DG
Summit height: 451 metres
OS map: Explorer OL4 The English Lakes North Western Area
Digital route: View the full route on Hiiker
Parking and access
We start from Lakeside Long Stay Car Park on Lake Road in Keswick. This is a large car park with over 250 spaces, including disabled bays and coach parking, and it sits just a couple of minutes walk from the shore of Derwentwater.
There are public toilets nearby, which is handy before boarding the boat, and Keswick town centre is only a short stroll away if you need food or supplies.
This car park works perfectly for this route as it allows you to park once and use the Derwentwater launch to access Catbells.
From the car park, walk down to Keswick jetty and board the boat to Hawes End. The crossing takes around ten minutes and adds a lovely extra layer of adventure to the walk, especially for children.
Make sure you buy a return ticket and aim to arrive at the jetty around fifteen minutes before departure, particularly during busy periods. Dogs are welcome on the boat.
During peak season this car park can fill up quickly, so arriving earlier in the day always makes things easier.
Route description
From Hawes End jetty it is only a short walk to the base of Catbells, and within minutes you are climbing.
The path is clear and well worn, with steady uphill sections broken up by flatter areas where you can pause and enjoy the views.
As you gain height, Derwentwater opens out behind you and the surrounding fells start to fill the skyline.
Near the top there are a couple of short rocky steps where hands may be useful. These are manageable in dry conditions and add to the sense of adventure without being technical.
If at any point the walk feels like too much, or the weather changes, simply turn around and head back the way you came. Knowing when to make that call is something to be proud of.
The summit of Catbells sits at 451 metres and rewards you with wide views over Derwentwater, Keswick, Borrowdale and the northern fells.
After the summit, continue along the ridge and follow the path as it drops back down towards Hawes End.
This side of the fell is much easier underfoot, and the descent feels gentler than the climb.
The path eventually brings you back to Hawes End jetty, where you catch the boat back across Derwentwater to Keswick.
What you will see on this walk
From peaceful lakeside scenes to wide open summit views, this walk packs in classic Lake District scenery from start to finish. You move from gentle shoreside moments into big fell landscapes, with Derwentwater always close by and something new appearing around every corner.
Derwentwater and Catbells
The lakeside moment that marks the start of your Catbells adventure.
Derwentwater rowing boats
The lakeside scene that makes the boat start feel extra special.
Catbells ridge with Derwentwater below
The path ahead, lake to one side, “wow” views everywhere.
Summit view over Derwentwater
Wide open lake views stretching out beneath you from the top of Catbells.
Borrowdale valley view
Rolling green fields and classic Lakeland valleys opening out below you.
Golden-hour boats by the jetty
If you time it right, the return can feel magical.
The Derwentwater boat crossing
Taking the launch to Hawes End transforms this walk into a proper mini adventure.
The short crossing saves your legs, avoids roadside walking, and makes the whole experience feel special, especially for children.
It also means you finish the walk with a relaxing boat ride rather than a tired trudge back into town.
Boat times vary by season, so always check ahead and allow extra time during busy periods.
Weather and safety
Although Catbells is often described as a beginner friendly fell, it still deserves respect.
Weather in the Lake District can change quickly, and the rocky sections near the top can become slippery in wet or windy conditions.
Always check the Lake District mountain forecast before setting off.
Wear footwear with good grip, carry waterproof layers, and be prepared to turn back if conditions deteriorate.
Is Catbells suitable for families
Catbells is one of the most popular family walks in the Lake District and is often chosen as a first Wainwright.
It is short and rewarding, but includes steep sections and short scrambly steps, so children should be supervised closely.
With sensible footwear, a steady pace, and good weather, most confident families will find this a brilliant introduction to fell walking.
If you need to turn back, do it (and be proud)
This is worth saying clearly on a Catbells guide: if the weather turns, if someone freezes up on the scrambly bits, if your gut says “not today”… turn around.
That’s not failure. That’s good decision making and in the mountains, that’s a skill to be proud of.
About this walking guide
This guide is part of Outdoor Exploring Family and our Lake District walks collection.
Every route we share is walked by us as a family and written with honesty, realism and lived experience. We believe in slowing down, spending time outdoors, and reconnecting with nature through simple adventures that anyone can enjoy.
Our walks are not about rushing summits or chasing distances. They are about fresh air, muddy boots, shared moments, and discovering how powerful time outside can be for both body and mind.
Each guide is created to help you explore confidently, respect the landscape, and make meaningful memories together in the wild places of the UK.
Frequently asked questions about the Catbells walk
Is Catbells a circular walk
Yes. Catbells is most commonly walked as a circular route. The classic 3.5 to 4 mile loop starts at Hawes End and climbs via the northern ridge before descending back down the opposite side. In this guide, we follow a circular route that begins with a boat crossing from Keswick and returns to Hawes End for the launch back across Derwentwater.
Can a beginner climb Catbells
Yes, many beginners climb Catbells successfully each year. It is considered one of the best first fell walks in the Lake District. The route is short and easy to follow, but it does include steep sections and a short rocky scramble near the summit. In dry, calm conditions most reasonably fit beginners will manage it comfortably if they take their time.
Is Catbells a difficult walk
Catbells is best described as moderate rather than difficult. It is not a flat path and it does feel like a proper mountain walk in places, especially on the steeper zig zags and rocky steps. In wet or windy weather it can feel more challenging, which is why good footwear and sensible judgement are important.
How long does it take to walk Catbells
Most people complete the standard Catbells circular walk in around two to three hours. For our 4.18 mile route including the boat crossing, we allow approximately 2 hours 5 minutes of walking time, plus extra time for photos, summit stops and waiting for the launch.
How high is Catbells
Catbells stands at 451 metres above sea level, which is 1,480 feet. It is one of Alfred Wainwright’s well known Lake District fells and is often chosen as a first Wainwright summit.
What is the best parking for Catbells if using the boat
If you are starting from Keswick and taking the Derwentwater launch, Lakeside Long Stay Car Park on Lake Road, CA12 5DG, is ideal. It is large, close to the lake and only a short walk from Keswick jetty.
Are dogs allowed on the Derwentwater launch
Yes. Well behaved dogs are welcome on the Derwentwater launch services and can travel free of charge. Dogs should be kept under control, especially during busy periods.
Catbells remains one of the most rewarding short fell walks in the Lake District, and combining it with the Derwentwater boat crossing makes it feel far bigger than the miles suggest.
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